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Description
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Serial Killer James "Texas Jim" Baker: A Detailed Account of His Crimes

Early Life and Background

James Baker, infamously known as "Texas Jim," was born around 1907 in Warren, Ohio. His early years were marred by hardship and criminal influence. Given up for adoption, he was taken in by a couple he referred to as "Mr. and Mrs. Plummer," who were involved in petty crimes. Under their care, Baker experienced regular beatings and was introduced to a life of crime from a young age. By the age of ten, he was already participating in burglaries and thefts across Pennsylvania and Ohio. His formative years were spent in and out of reform schools, where he endured harsh treatments that further shaped his troubled psyche.

Criminal Activities and Murders

Baker's criminal activities escalated significantly between 1924 and 1929. During this period, he confessed to the murders of nine men across various countries, employing methods such as poisoning and shooting. His confessions, however, were often laced with embellishments, making it challenging to discern the exact details of each crime. Despite the inconsistencies, certain incidents stand out:
  • 1924: Baker claimed his first murder occurred in this year, though specific details about the victim remain unclear.
  • December 28, 1928: The confirmed poisoning of Henry Gaw, an employee at the Guggenheim Metallurgical Research Laboratory in New York City. Gaw was found dead under mysterious circumstances, and it wasn't until Baker's later confession that the cause was identified as poisoning.
  • 1929: Baker alleged multiple murders during this year, spanning countries like India, the Philippines, and Venezuela. However, these claims lack concrete evidence and are considered part of his tendency to exaggerate his criminal exploits.

Capture and Confession

On February 19, 1930, Detroit detectives apprehended James Baker. During interrogation, he confessed to multiple murders, providing detailed accounts that both intrigued and horrified investigators. His demeanor was notably arrogant, as he seemed to take pride in recounting his heinous acts. While some of his claims were verified, others appeared to be fabrications, possibly intended to enhance his notoriety. ...Read More
Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (2)
  • Unnamed Victim , Date of Death: 1924
  •     ...View 1 additional victims
    Links to Additional Sources (3)
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    Killer's Details

    James

    Baker

    1907 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

    after 1940 Dannemora State Mental Hospital, Dannemora, New York, United States

    Male

    White

    Texas Jim

    Murder

    Life imprisonment

    2 - 9

    1924 - 1929

    New York, Michigan, Others confessed

    1929

    Dannemora State Mental Hospital — Dannemora, New York

    07/03/2025